Fraser Willson
July 03, 2025
Financial literacySuccession Planning For Farmers
The Town of the Blue Mountains is home to 119 farms and 17,500 acres in crops, generating over $21 million in gross farm receipts annually1. With the average farm operator age nearing 60, many local families are considering the future of their farm businesses1.
When planning for a farm sale, it’s important to consider tax-efficient strategies, such as utilizing the lifetime capital gains exemption and structuring payments to manage your tax liability over time2. For those looking to transfer the farm to the next generation, intergenerational rollover provisions and careful succession planning may help minimize taxes and keep the business viable.
Cash flow planning is also essential—review your expected income and expenses before and after retirement to ensure a smooth transition. Personal tax and estate planning, including wills, trusts, and insurance, can assist with safeguarding your assets.
Finally, comprehensive retirement and financial planning—factoring in Registered Retirement Savings Plans, investments and government benefits—can assist with providing peace of mind as you transition out of active farming.
If you’d like guidance tailored to your family’s needs, together with our CIBC partners, we can help you develop a personalized financial plan to assist with protecting your legacy and your financial future.
Please give me a call if you would like to assess your strategy and how I can help you achieve your long-term goals.
Fraser Willson, CFP®, CIM® | Senior Wealth Advisor | CIBC Wood Gundy | Collingwood | Fraser.Willson@cibc.com | (647) 588-4344 | www.willsoninvestments.com
1https://www.thebluemountains.ca/business-economy/agriculture
2 CRA – T4002: Chapter 6 – Capital gains
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